1900s - French Chromolithograph - Notre Dame Serfs Medieval Scene Trade Card - Auxerre Maison Bunel Advertisement

This is a French chromolithograph, likely a trade card, from the 1900s. The front features a vibrant illustration depicting a dramatic medieval scene, accompanied by the text 'L'HORLOGE D'AUXERRE Maison BUNEL NOUVEAUTÉS - CONFECTIONS,' which translates to 'The Clock of Auxerre - Bunel House - Novelties - Ready-to-Wear.' Below the scene, the caption reads 'LES SERFS DE NOTRE DAME,' meaning 'The Serfs of Notre Dame.'

The reverse side of the card presents an educational historical narrative under the heading 'ENSEIGNEMENT PATRIOTIQUE PAR L'IMAGE' (Patriotic Education through Images). The main text details 'LES SERFS DE NOTRE-DAME-DE-PARIS (1253),' discussing the historical context of serfdom in medieval France, specifically concerning the chapter of Notre-Dame-de-Paris. This type of card served as both an advertisement for Maison Bunel in Auxerre and a means of cultural or historical dissemination.